The Trotters were due to face Wigan at the DW Stadium last night, however severe weather conditions in the north west meant roads in the area had become treacherous.

The playing surface was deemed playable, however safety concerns regarding the public areas surrounding the ground, which were covered in snow and ice, meant Wigan had no option but to call off the match.

As news reached the Bolton players, Cahill admitted it came as a blow, with Gary Megson's team looking to build on their 3-3 draw against Manchester City and 3-1 win over West Ham.

The postponement means that when Bolton face Burnley at Turf Moor on Saturday, it will be their first match for 11 days.

Cahill said: 'Obviously we are on a good run and we have done well in the last two games, so it's a disappointment because we had prepared for the game in the last week and we were ready to go.'

He explained: 'We had a training session instead, and in that sense the week just continues normally. Everything is now set up for Boxing Day.'

Bolton's players were due back in training this morning.

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez accepted the decision to postpone the game was necessary considering the perils of travelling when snow and ice are a factor.

...having scored against Manchester City in Bolton's previous match

His team also have a derby on Boxing Day, when they play Blackburn at the DW Stadium.

A Wigan statement explained the match was 'reluctantly' called off.

It explained: 'Following a thorough inspection it was felt that the areas around the stadium, despite the best efforts of Wigan and Wigan Metropolitan Borough Council, are deemed not safe for the public.'

The statement added: 'The club wishes to apologise to all its supporters, and to the supporters of Bolton, but their safety is of paramount importance.'